Volkswagen Golf
We've always admired the VW Golf's abilities on smooth surfaces, but now there's a variant that's good in the rough. This is the new 4MOTION version of Germany's most popular hatchback, and it's set to go on sale in Britain next year.
The Golf 4MOTION is an interesting addition to the range, but there's little point in buying it unless you need the extra traction. In most conditions, the standard car copes perfectly. If you live somewhere prone to sub-zero temperatures, it may be worth the investment.
We've always admired the VW Golf's abilities on smooth surfaces, but now there's a variant that's good in the rough. This is the new 4MOTION version of Germany's most popular hatchback, and it's set to go on sale in Britain next year.
It boasts permanent four-wheel drive, which VW says will appeal to buyers who use their Golfs for towing or live in rural areas. The set-up uses a Haldex coupling system, which effectively distributes power away from wheels that slip and towards those with most grip.
On tricky surfaces, the 4WD gives the Golf an assured and predictable feel that matches its composure on more conventional roads, while if driven hard it grips better at the front end, with a sharper turn-in than front-wheel-drive models. There will also be an optional rough road package, which increases the ground clearance by 20 millimetres, firms up the suspension and includes a protection plate underneath the engine.
So the Golf 4MOTION is a competent beast - but don't expect it to be a common sight on British roads. It will be available in GT specification only, with either VW's 140bhp 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine or the 150bhp 2.0 FSI petrol unit and a six-speed manual gearbox. Due to the projected low volume, an automatic won't be offered.
According to the firm, the 4MOTION will account for only one per cent of total UK Golf sales, with an estimated price tag of £19,000, around £1,000 more than a two-wheel-drive GT model.
